This wasn’t the equivalent of a bad play call or an untimely timeout; this was “Coaching 101.” A solid strength and conditioning coach is a must and the Vols didn’t have it. 247Sports cited unnamed sources that confirmed what everyone believed: UT’s strength and conditioning program wasn’t up to snuff.

It didn’t take unnamed sources to prove that the Vols had several physical problems this season. Injuries were a factor throughout the season. The Vols also seemed tired coming down the stretch. Coincidence? Doubtful. Casual fans don’t realize how important a great strength and conditioning staff can be. Jones should have.

So can Gullickson, who has been a strength and conditioning coach for 39 years, remedy the situation? That’s hard to say. First, it’s hard to imagine a top strength and conditioning coach coming to Tennessee with a coach on the hot seat, as Jones is after this season. Second, Gullickson seems like an easy hire since he needed a job after the Los Angeles Rams cleaned house.

Nevertheless, the Vols finally have a director of strength and conditioning. At least one major problem has been addressed.